This regal rice recipe, or Shahi Pulao, is an aromatic Indian rice dish made with nuts and luxurious spices. I typically prepared for dinner parties, festivities and special occasions.
This Shahi Pulao is also known as Mughlai Shahi Pulao because it is filled with rich and aromatic spices, nuts and dried fruit. It has a wonderful range of textures and complex flavour, making it a perfect dish on its own or with a curry.
I have added only whole spices and saffron but you can absolutely add mixed vegetables too. I love this Vegetable Pulao recipe as an alternative.
Shahi Pulao is perfect to serve alongside rich curries and dals and makes for a fantastic side for a Diwali Dinner Menu.
Serving Suggestion
Shahi Pulao is a wonderful accompaniment to gravy based dishes. This Palak Paneer Kofta or Shahi Paneer is a great contender.
Dals such as Dal Makhani, Sultani Dal, Dishoom Black Dal or Authentic Chana Masala are also great too.
I like a side of cooling cucumber raita.
Storage
Store leftover shahi pulao in the fridge in an airtight container. Consume within 3-4 days. You can also prepare this rice in advance and reheat prior to serving.
I do not recommend freezing this rice as the rice grains loose their texture upon thawing.
Other Indian Rice Recipes
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Shahi Pulao
Equipment
- 1 pan
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoon oil or ghee
- ¼ cup nuts and dried fruit - almonds, cashew nuts and sultanas. You can also use pistachios
- Small pinch saffron soaked in ¼ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon whole spices cumin seeds,cardamom seeds, cinnamon bark, cloves
- salt
Garnish
- fresh coriander leaves chopped
- rose petals
Instructions
- First wash rice in cold water at least 4-5 times to remove starch, soak in cold water for half an hour.
- In a saute pan, heat oil and add the almonds, cashews and sultanas. Saute until they just change colour and remove from the pan.
- In the same oil, add the whole spices and allow to sizzle for a moment.
- Then add in the soaked rice and season with salt. Add in the saffron water.
- Pour over hot water and allow the rice to cook.
- Once fully cooked and fluffy, allow to sit for a few minutes with the lid on before mixing through the cooked nuts.
- Serve hot.
Video
Nutrition
PLEASE NOTE: Nutritional values are estimated by a computer and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. For personalised dietary advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Share on Facebook Pin This Recipe Share by TextNote – This recipe was first published in February, 2012. The post has now been updated with more helpful content – the recipe remains the same.
Moop Brown says
I like how the addition of the dried fruit here adds a nice contrast of sweet and savory flavors.
Hayley says
Thank you Moop.
Sean says
I have had this before when people would bring it to work but I never had a recipe. I am excited to make this.
Hayley says
Let us know how you like it Sean.
Carrie Robinson says
What a flavorful idea for a side dish! I am loving the spices in this and the added crunch from the addition of nuts. Yum! 🙂
Hayley says
Thank you Carrie.
Kathryn says
I've never heard of this dish but I'm intrigued! There are so many delicious flavors in this, looking forward to trying it!
Hayley says
Hope you enjoy this dish.
Jessica says
My dinner guests raved about this dish. Everyone thought it was so pretty. A nice elegant touch to a normal side. Thank you!
Hayley says
So happy to hear that Jessica.
Leslie says
Everything about this recipe is perfection! I especially love the added nuts. It's a wonderful addition to the texture!
Hayley says
Thank you Leslie.
Marta says
I purchased some beautiful basmati rice from a local grocery store, so I was excited to try out this suka meva pulao. The combination of textures and flavors from the fruits and nuts was perfect!
Hayley says
Marta, I am so pleased to hear these words. So glad you guys enjoyed this rice dish.
Gloria says
What a delicious looking rice dish. I love all the textures and flavours in this. It is the perfect side dish for dinner.
Hayley says
Thank you Gloria.
Bernice says
I couldn't resist your lovely photos and had to make this jeweled rice right away! It's surprising how easy it was and everyone was really impressed. I'm saving this recipe for our next curry night.
Hayley says
Thrilled to know that you loved making our Shahi Pulao.
Unknown says
Who dare to think of the cal when this sooper yummy rich pulav is on the table,once in a while relishing such a delicious looking pulav is very much okkk...
Nice clicks too......
Niloufer Riyaz says
colourful and delicious pulao!!!
hotpotcooking says
Yum rich pulao
Jyoti Babel says
Rich and delicious!